ABOUT THE TRIO
Michele Milano, born and bred New Yorker began her musical journey under the tutelage of Lavina McClure, piano disciple of the iconic pianist/professor Alton Jones of The Julliard School of Music.From her school days with Ms. McClure, through the University level, Michele pursued her undergraduate degrees in Music, French and Spanish: Graduating from MaryMount College and later The University of Mary Washington.
Her graduate musical studies were done at George Mason, Shenandoah and The Catholic University of America.Ms. Milano taught music both in private studio as well as in schools for K-12 over the years. She has conducted various choruses, nationally and internationally and has directed Music in various churches for most denominations.
Her performance background as a soloist, in Jazz Duo and Trio, includes various venues such as The French, Italian and UAE embassies, the French Ambassador’s Residence, The Strathmore, DC Clubs, Wedding Venues, 5 Star Hotels, a myriad of restaurants, Cathedrals as well as for a past World Youth Day in Paris.
Currently, Michele lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and 2 poodles, Misty and Melody. In her free time, Ms. Milano has authored 2 books, a Children’s book and a Mystery Thriller: Available here. Sequels to both books are in the works!!
Lester Harper, Upright Bass
Lester Harper, Psy.D, psychology retired after 35 years as an admin/clinical director for hospitals both in New York City and Yonkers, New York.
Lester’s musical journey with the acoustic bass began in his mid 40’s. The jazz community was gracious and supportive to him. His enthusiasm and passion for music was noticed by the African American Institute of Music of Pittsburgh where he became one of the school’s faculty.
Though, Dr. Harper wished that he started musical journey sooner as a child, he is thankful for the support of all of the musicians who contributed to his growth in music.
Dr. Harper has played for a wide variety of venues and organizations in the New York City Metropolitan area including the prestigious Rose Room, as well as in the DMV Metro area, including several engagements at the Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase MD and the French Ambassador’s Residence in Washington DC.Currently, Lester lives in Pittsburgh where he frequently gigs with a variety of groups when he is not busy teaching at the AAMI of Pittsburgh.
Dr. Gregory Scott Morin, Ed.D (Doc)
Dr. Gregory Scott Morin, Ed.D (Doc), drummer for the Trio, has been playing percussion since the age of seven. He started out on pots and pans, then gradually worked his way up to a Marine Corps drummer, a former member of The Commandant's Own, graduating as the #1 drummer from the USMC Field Music School. Also, during his 30-year Marine Corps career, he became an attorney and attained the rank of LtCol.
His performance background, too huge to include here, features incredible events playing in The United States, Abroad, in Mombasa, Kenya and at Foreign Embassies: Playing for Presidents, Military dignitaries as well as the French Embassy and the Ambassador's Residence, The Alliance Française and a myriad of other impressive venues.
Dr. Morin holds a certification as a Professional Drummer from Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA. His memberships include the National Association of Rudimental Drummers (NARD), Band of America's Few, The Marine Corps Musicians Association, and the Percussive Arts Society.Currently, Greg lives in Northern Virginia where he performs for regular church services in Fredericksburg, and has been teaching Shop classes at a local secondary school for some 25 years.In his spare time, Greg enjoys woodworking and other creative arts.